The Smoke & Ashe Pitmaster Invitational, hosted in the City of Asheboro, will be a “Celebration of Great BBQ & Good Times.” The two-day event will offer a unique collection of special events/activities, vendor displays, food and beverage options and entertainment for the entire family to enjoy.

The event will feature barbecue sampling from some of the region’s top pitmasters including Asheboro’s own Keith Henning of Black Powder Smokehouse.

FRIDAY, APRIL 24: THE PITMASTER DINNER (6:30PM-8:30PM)

The inaugural Smoke & Ashe Pitmaster Dinner kicks off two days of great barbecue, fun, and flavor in Asheboro. Hosted at Black Powder Smokehouse by pitmaster Keith Henning, this special evening will treat guests to a full plate of Keith’s signature low-n-slow barbecue, along with satisfying sides and desserts. The night will also feature live entertainment and spirits sampling, creating a lively, laid-back atmosphere to start the celebration. A cash bar will be available throughout the evening.

The inaugural Smoke in Ashe Pitmaster Dinner kicks off two days of great barbecue, fun, and flavor in Asheboro. Hosted at Black Powder Smokehouse by pitmaster Keith Henning, this special evening will treat guests to a full plate of Keith’s signature low-n-slow barbecue, along with satisfying sides and desserts. The night will also feature live entertainment and spirits sampling, creating a lively, laid-back atmosphere to start the celebration. A cash bar will be available throughout the evening.

SATURDAY, APRIL 25: THE SMOKE & ASHE PITMASTER INVITATIONAL (Noon-4:00pm for General Ticket Holders, 11:00am-4:00pm for Pig Out Ticket Holders)

The Pitmaster Invitational will take place in the iconic Bicentennial Park in downtown Asheboro, serving as the premier event in the city’s newest culinary tradition, Smoke in Ashe. This all-day celebration of barbecue will feature five legendary pitmasters from North and South Carolina, each crafting select barbecue samples that highlight the region’s rich smoking traditions. Every ticket includes one barbecue sample and a classic Southern side from each pitmaster, ensuring no one goes home hungry. The event will be rounded out with North Carolina barbecue product vendors, live entertainment, and a selection of craft and domestic beer—making it a full day of flavor, music, and Southern tradition.